Descartes pushes Cargo-XML adoption in air cargo industry

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

The logistics software company Descartes Systems Group said Tuesday that it is working with DHL Global Forwarding and other customers to spearhead the air freight forwarding industry's adoption of Cargo-XML as a new communication standard.
"Descartes manages all of DHL Global Forwarding's electronic communications with our air carrier partners," said Steve Smith, head of e-business air freight for DHL Global Forwarding, in a statement. "When the time came to upgrade our system communications, we looked to Descartes and our carrier partners to lead the industry in the adoption of Cargo-XML. With technology that is more flexible and robust than the previous standards, we're better positioned to react to changing regulations and customer demands."
The Cargo-XML standard is designed to make communication in the air industry more robust. It provides forwarders, airlines, and their respective trading partners with greater data capture capabilities, improved information accuracy, support of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) "eFreight" initiative, and better ability to keep pace with rapidly evolving customs and security requirements, Descartes said in a statement.
"Great partnerships with freight forwarders and carriers across our installed base, like the one we have DHL Global Forwarding, are helping to accelerate adoption of Cargo-XML," said Scott Sangster, vice president of global logistics network at Descartes. "We look forward to continued collaboration with DHL Global Forwarding and other leaders participating in the IATA Cargo-XML Task Force to help develop standards and ways to improve the efficiency and security of the air cargo industry." - Eric Johnson